Join the Cluster of Excellence “BlueMat: Water-Driven Materials” and contribute to one of Europe’s most exciting research initiatives. Collaborate with a dynamic, interdisciplinary team that combines science, sustainability, and technology to create a better future. Help shape the next generation of sustainable materials inspired by nature’s most powerful resource: water.

For the Institute of Thermal Separation Process for 1 February 2026 we are looking for a

Research Associate (m/f/d) - 
Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in 

to conduct research within project Switching MIR Adsorption by Water in Nanoporous Materials as part of the BlueMat Cluster of Excellence. The position is full time and fixed-term until 31 January 2029. The remuneration is in accordance with salary group 13 TV-L (collective agreement for the public service of the federal states).

You will explore how nanoconfined water affects the dielectric and optical behavior of nanoporous polyolefin aerogels, with the goal of developing materials whose infrared properties can be reversibly tuned by water adsorption and desorption.

YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS

• Synthesize nanoporous polyolefin aerogels using advanced cryogenic and supercritical drying techniques
• Investigate water adsorption and confinement phenomena using thermodynamic, spectroscopic, and scattering approaches
• Characterize mid-infrared transmission and absorption behavior as a function of controlled water uptake
• Develop or apply theoretical and simulation models linking nanostructure, confined water distribution, and optical response
• Collaborate with BlueMat partners on modeling, spectroscopy, and materials design to establish a comprehensive understanding of water-enabled optical tuning
• Share your findings through publications and engage with the research community and public
  

YOUR PROFILE

Essential qualification

• Completed scientific university studies (master's degree or equivalent), in particular in the subject of materials science, physical chemistry, polymer science or chemical engineering

Required knowledge and personal skills

• Solid background in thermodynamics, spectroscopy and material characterization methods
  
• Experience with experimental work on porous materials or soft matter systems
• Very good English required (at least B2/C1 level according to CEFR) – German is not mandatory
• Curiosity and teamwork skills for working in interdisciplinary teams 

Desired knowledge and personal skills

• Knowledge of infrared spectroscopy, adsorption phenomena, or dielectric measurements is an advantage
• Familiarity with nanostructured or polymeric materials, particularly aerogels or hydrogels
• Basic understanding of theoretical or computational modeling of molecular or optical behavior would be beneficial
  

OUR OFFER

• Scientific qualification with the opportunity to pursue a PhD in a leading research cluster 
• Access to BlueMat Academy: training workshops, German language support, mentoring, and career development
• Participation in international conferences, research stays, and collaborative networks
• Flexible working conditions, 30 vacation days, family-friendly policies 
• Access to on-campus fitness facilities and health promotion programs

For further information please contact Dr. Pavel Gurikov at pavel.gurikov@tuhh.de or Prof. Dr. Irina Smirnova at Irina.smirnova@tuhh.de  - we are pleased to support you.